New Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso has ‘warned’ that even Kylian Mbappe must press and fight for every ball ahead of his first game in charge at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup taking place in the United States.
Alonso has issued a clear message to his Madrid players ahead of their Club World Cup debut against Simone Inzaghi’s Al-Hilal – no effort, no play, according to Cadena SER. Even Mbappe is expected to track back and press defenders.
The Spaniard is determined to fix Madrid’s inconsistent pressing game from last season and is introducing strict discipline to his squad. After a season that lacked defensive consistency, despite trophy wins under Carlo Ancelotti, Alonso wants intensity, organisation and a winning mentality from day one.
New signings, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen, are set to start against Al Hilal, SER reported, with other stars like Vinicius Jr. and Mbappe also in the XI. But stardom won’t protect anyone from being benched for poor effort.
The former Leverkusen manager reportedly told the squad: “Whoever saves a run gets a yellow. Do it again, and it’s a red.” Even goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is expected to “run for every ball.” Alonso wants all 11 players to show maximum commitment, regardless of their status or position.
Los Blancos face Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal in their Club World Cup opener on June 18. It will be the first real test of Alonso’s high-intensity system and whether the star-studded squad can adapt to a new, demanding style of play.